With the rise of remote work, California employees are experiencing new types of workplace injuries covered by workers’ compensation. Identifying these injuries can help maintain a healthier work environment.
Ergonomic injuries
Poor workstation setups often lead to ergonomic injuries. These can include repetitive strain injuries, back pain, and neck strain. Using a non-ergonomic keyboard or mouse frequently results in carpal tunnel syndrome. Extended hours on laptops and tablets can cause misalignment of hand, wrist, and elbow joints, further exacerbating carpal tunnel syndrome. Improper seating and desk arrangements contribute to chronic back and neck issues, significantly affecting productivity and comfort.
Contact injuries
Contact injuries are another common issue for remote workers. Items falling from shelves or cabinets in the course of your work can cause serious harm. Injuries from closing doors or drawers can result in broken bones, lacerations, and even concussions. These incidents often occur in makeshift home offices where safety considerations are not fully addressed.
Preventing work-from-home injuries
Preventing these injuries involves creating a healthier workspace. Adjusting your workstation for better ergonomics is essential. Use an ergonomic chair and an external monitor to reduce strain. Ensuring proper lighting and organizing your workspace to avoid contact injuries are also crucial steps.
Boosting remote work well-being
By addressing and preventing these common work-from-home injuries, remote workers in California can significantly improve their well-being and productivity. Knowledge of injury prevention is as important as understanding the actions to take after an injury. knowing how to stay safe while working is vital for a productive and injury-free remote work experience.